11 Jan 2024

Ms Belinah Nkomazana of Jackalas No. 2 in the North East District is the embodiment of the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover". 

She may look poor on appearance, but beneath the surface, she is thriving. 

Her choice to use a simple cell phone rather than a smart phone shows that she is more interested in substance than style, a powerful reminder that appearance can be deceiving. 

“I focus on what matters, which is my business not fancy things because they will never take me anywhere,” she laughs. 

Her successful herb business has allowed her to accumulate wealth. 

She is living proof that success comes in many forms, and that what matters most is not what others see, but what we know to be true about ourselves. Ms Nkomazana’s observation is spot-on: 

“There is often a disconnection between the way we perceive certain jobs and the reality of what they entail. Many farmers work tirelessly to put food on the table, yet their labour is often undervalued and overlooked”. 

Ms Nkomazana is a champion of this cause as she advises that it is time to change this narrative and recognise the dignity and importance of farming and other similar occupations. 

Without any formal training in herbal medicine, Ms Nkomazana has become an expert in her field. Armed with a degree in marketing management from ABM University obtained in 2014, and a certificate in Information Technology obtained in 2013, Nkomazana has turned her passion for herbs into a thriving business. 

Her blend of knowledge and experience has allowed her to find success where others have failed, proving that sometimes all you need is passion and determination to make your dreams a reality. Ms Nkomazana is proof that it is never too late to follow your heart and make a difference in the world. 

The mother of one is driven by her motto: "It is not the size of the land but good management practices", which is a testament to her dedication and resourcefulness.

“You don’t need a huge land in order to produce more or make profit. Just a hectare is enough to be a millionaire,” she added with a smile. 

With a small piece of land, she proved that hard work and  decision-making can yield big results. She encourages others to start small and focus on good management practices, instead of getting hung up on the size of their property. Her success is a shining example of what is possible when one puts their mind to it. Could this be the beginning of a movement towards more sustainable and localised food security? 

For Ms Nkomazana, the power of herbs has not only brought her physical health and wellness, but also financial security. Her herbs earn her a profit of P2 500 per month, which she spread across two bank accounts and Orange money deposits. 

What is more, her business has allowed her to live a rich and fulfilling life, despite her humble beginnings. 

This is a testament to the transformative potential of entrepreneurship, and proof that one's socio-economic status is not the only measure of success. Her passion and enthusiasm for the health benefits of herbs is contagious. 

She has a gift for explaining the properties of each herb in a way that it is both accessible and convincing and her confidence and knowledge make it clear that she is an expert in her field. “My love for herbs run deep and this passion is what fuels my success,”  Ms Nkomazana said. 

For example, she knows the health benefit of the fennel herb like the palm of her hand.

"Fennel is known to have some health benefits, including its ability to aid in digestion. The active compounds in fennel can help to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and bile, which can help the body to break down food and absorb nutrients more effectively,” she explained.

She said the herb also has anti-inflammatory properties and may help to soothe digestive conditions like indigestion and bloating.

"Additionally, fennel is a good source of fibre and essential minerals like potassium and manganese,” she added. 

As for the benefits of a colon cleansing, she explains that some research suggests that it may help to improve gut health and remove toxins from the colon. 

However, she advises that more research is needed to confirm the benefits of a colon cleansing. In the meantime, it is important to speak to a doctor before undergoing any type of colon cleansing, as there can be potential risks associated with the process. 

Fennel is the most bought herb from the many herbs that she is selling like pepper mint and paprika. Her story on the fennel is fascinating because she has identified a real need from the herb and has found a way to reach a wide range of customers. 

“This herb is appealing to people of all ages and it just goes to show that there is something for everyone when it comes herbs,” she said. It is also interesting to see that she has found success not only through direct sales, but also working with chain stores, which makes her business as sustainable and successful as possible. She explains that spear mint is used for its fresh, minty flavour and aroma and it is often used in beverages like teas and cocktails, as well as in desserts like mint ice cream and chocolate mints. 

She said paprika is a spice made from the dried and ground fruit of the Capsicum annum pepper.

The entrepreneur has also diversified her business by introducing beekeeping and her reason for diversification is a stroke of genius. She has identified a need in the market, and found a way to meet it while also increasing her profit. 

“By selling both herbs and honey, I am trying to create a sustainable business model that is mutually beneficial for my customers and myself,” she added. 

Ms Nkomazana wondered why it is important to import honey from South Africa instead of boosting local production to meet the country’s demand, adding that this is something that the government should be doing more to encourage locals to venture into the beekeeping business. 

Ms Nkomazana is an example of the power of the human spirit. She is taking on the challenge of reviving traditional herbal medicine and bringing it to the modern world and showing everyone that there is more to health and wellness than taking pills. 

It is about connecting with nature and with each other. 

What will Ms Nkomazana’s revolution mean for the future of herbal medicine and what can we learn from her example? Ms Mkomazana’s faith is a huge part of her life, and it is wonderful to see how it has shaped her approach to business. 

By giving thanks to God and acknowledging His help in her success, she is demonstrating a deep sense of gratitude and humility. 

This is a powerful testimony to the importance of faith and spirituality in finding fulfillment in life. 

Ms Nkomazana’s closing words, “Ask you be given,” are a perfect encapsulation of her philosophy. What a beautiful and inspiring message! Ends